How far have you come in 2019?

#1

As the year closes and we prepare for a new year of trips to the range, take some time to reflect on how far you’ve come over the last year.

Personally, I became a Defensive Shooting Fundamentals Instructor, built my first AR and put a lot of rounds downrange.

How many rounds did you shoot this year?

  • I didn’t get to the range enough :frowning:
  • 100-500
  • 501-2000
  • 2100-5000
  • 5001+

0 voters

What is the biggest thing you learned about self-defense or shooting this year?

2 Likes
#2

Since this is my first year of self-defense / shooting experience the biggest thing I learned was " The 4 Rules of Gun Safety".

6 Likes
#3

You never stop learning. I learned to listen to my instincts. Also, that I still have a lot to learn.

8 Likes
#4

I learned using instincts is almost as good as sights inside of 7 yards. I kind of already knew that from spearfishing, but confirmed it with handguns this year.

3 Likes
#5

Just some things that I noted thus far… NOT listed in terms of importance…

  1. What compromises I have to make in firearm dimensions and weight with different outfits in regards to printing (relates to weather, daily activity, etc.) vs what I prefer e.g. model, caliber, etc.
  2. What holster positions work for me when doing a lot of driving (access, comfort, etc.)
  3. Retention and thickness differences on leather vs Kydex holsters
  4. Waiting times, expense, and availability for quality holsters for firearms that aren’t as popular as Glock (don’t own one)
  5. What shops in my area ban CCW’s (posted signs) and which signs are official
  6. Options for spare magazine carry
  7. What ammo doesn’t work well in my firearm
  8. I found that I wanted to add pepper spray to my options

Something I’m working on… strategy for storing firearm in tethered vehicle security locker and then rearming when required. I would prefer to take the entire holster off without removing the firearm instead of unholstering. I don’t feel comfortable trying to get a holster back on in my vehicle. So far, I just try not to go to those shops/places at all.

4 Likes
#6

I finally gave in and embraced red dots on pistols.

4 Likes
#7

Only been shooting a little over a year, and the biggest thing is I still have a lot to learn. I’ve taken a concealed carry class and gotten my permit, signed up for a ladies defensive class. Still much to learn and practice, practice, practice.

4 Likes
#9

Amen to that ! 40 years training and will never stop :slight_smile:

2 Likes
#10

WIsh I could have gotten to the range more, but, I did still manage about 5-600 handgun rounds, 100-125 shogun, and about 350-400 rifle. I also became a 4H rifle coach, working with 10-18 year old kids about rifle safety and shooting techniques.

4 Likes
#11

I’m talking about situations I feel uneasy about. I avoid the person or thing.

3 Likes
#12

In all my years on the range the most important, in my opinion, is patience, focus and safety. Not secondary to the patience and safety, but never shoot when in an emotional state. Not to be confused with a stressed state of mind.
Emotions affect the minds eye. I don’t think it’s a good idea to be on the range after a divorce, job loss or the loss of a loved one. That’s where discipline comes in. Wait a few days, then focus and clear your head.
Stress impacts fine motor skills, breathing and heart rate, all of which can be controlled if properly trained.
In a defensive situation I want my skills to come as naturally as breathing.

1 Like
#13

Well I’ve opened carried trying to save money all these years but now I finally got it.

I would say that’s advancing.

1 Like
#14

I spent about 20 hours in formal training and learned that skills not used/practiced come back but not quickly!

4 Likes
#15

2019 “The Year of the Red Dot” :slight_smile:

3 Likes